Biden set to ban Kaspersky Lab’s antivirus software in US

• Seeks to maintain pressure on Moscow amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the depletion of fresh sanctions that can be imposed on Russia.

The Biden administration is likely to prohibit the sale of Kaspersky Lab’s antivirus software in the United States on concerns over the potential cybersecurity risks posed by the company’s close ties to the Russian government.

According to Reuters, the administration has found that Kaspersky’s software, which enjoys privileged access to computer systems, could allow it to steal sensitive information, install malware, or withhold critical updates, thereby endangering critical infrastructure providers and state and local governments that utilise the company’s products.

The sweeping new rule, enabled by the broad powers granted under the Trump administration, will be coupled with the addition of Kaspersky to a trade restriction list, effectively barring US  suppliers from selling to the company.

The move is expected to deal a significant blow to Kaspersky’s reputation and potentially hamper its overseas sales.

Fresh sanctions

The administration’s actions demonstrate its commitment to protecting American interests and mitigating the risks of potential Russian cyberattacks stemming from Kaspersky software.

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The decision to restrict the use of Kaspersky products comes as the United States seeks to maintain pressure on Moscow amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the depletion of fresh sanctions that can be imposed on Russia.

The new tools employed by the Biden administration, which allow for the banning or restriction of transactions between US firms and technology companies from “foreign adversary” nations like Russia and China, remain largely untested.

However, the administration’s willingness to utilise these powers in the case of Kaspersky underscores the gravity of the perceived threat and the government’s determination to safeguard American cybersecurity.

Proactive approach

Kaspersky has been in regulators’ crosshairs. In 2017, the Department of Homeland Security banned its flagship antivirus product from federal networks, alleging ties to Russian intelligence and noting Russian law lets intelligence agencies compel assistance from Kaspersky and intercept communications using Russian networks.

 The US government had privately warned some American companies the day after Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022 that Moscow could manipulate software designed by Kaspersky to cause harm.

The administration’s proactive approach in addressing the Kaspersky issue demonstrates its commitment to maintaining the integrity of American computer systems and protecting critical infrastructure from potential threats.

Sellers and resellers, under the new rules who violate the restrictions, will face fines from the Commerce Department. If someone willfully violates the prohibition, the Justice Department can bring a criminal case.